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An original, one-woman show
about the life and flights of Amelia Earhart. |
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| DARING TO DREAM is about the life and last flight of the famous aviatrix Amelia Earhart. The first woman to attempt an around-the-world flight on a course approximating the equator, Amelia was idolized during her life. Her disappearance evoked tears – and sparked numerous theories as to her ultimate fate. Those theories continue to be debated even today. At the start of the play, Amelia arrives as if she has just stepped off one of her planes and proceeds to tell the story of how she came to be a pilot and, more importantly, what that meant to her. In the course of the recollection, her spirit, drive and strong commitment to equal rights for women become clear. More than a simple biography, the piece is designed as an encouragement to all to reach for the stars. I was commissioned to write Daring to Dream by the Zonta International chapter in Naples, Florida, to help that group celebrate both its founding and the role that Amelia, a Zonta member, played in the national organization. My research led me to read Doris L. Rich’s biography of the famed flyer and 20 Hours 40 Minutes, Amelia’s own account of her first Trans-Atlantic flight, as well as to conduct other extensive research. The title of the piece was inspired by Amelia’s drive to accomplish her self-set goals and to go beyond what was expected of women of her time. |
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| The fully costumed Daring to Dream is a lesson in history and personal quest, wrapped in an entertaining package of humor, disappointment and devotion to one’s dreams. The program runs about one hour and requires little space, allowing its performance nearly anywhere. Only a small table is needed; all other props are supplied. Post-performance question/answer sessions can also be arranged. |
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The Women who Took Flight
Having become captivated by the life of famed aviatrix Amelia Earhart through the research that led to Daring to Dream, Janina Birtolo joined with visual artist Jo-Ann Lizio to create Amelia?s View Through Pilots? Eyes. This 20-minute performance piece brings Amelia back to the stage to share stories about herself and five other early female pilots: Ruth Elder, Pancho Barnes, Bobbi Trout, Jean LaRene and Gladys O?Donnell. Jo-Ann Lizio had already created ?Pilot Eyes,? an engaging art work that highlights the faces (particularly the eyes) and plane call letters of the six female fliers. Birtolo then searched for stories of how their flying lives intersected to create a short play relating the first women?s cross-country air races and the formation of the Ninety-Nines. Presented against the backdrop of Lizio?s visual work, the play celebrates these women and the courage and conviction that made them take flight. The fully costumed Amelia?s View Through Pilots? Eyes is a lesson in history, friendship and competition, wrapped in an entertaining package of humor, inspiration and challenge. The program runs about 20 minutes and requires little space, making it ideal for small groups seeking a concise entertainment. Post-performance question/answer sessions can also be arranged. For more information, references and/or to arrange a performance, contact Birtolo at (239) 592-1137 or by email at janinab@aol.com or visit her website at www.janinabirtolo.com. |
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